Other Mazda 3 (2009 - 2013) models:

  • Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    It's very nice to look at and the sport kit is very stylish... it does however encourage the odd boy/girl racer to try it on at the lights!

    What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

    Everybody loves it, nobody has been negative.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Yes.. although diesel is worth considering. The MPG for a 1.6 petrol is not great and by mid 2010 there should be good used diesels on the market

    What are you likely to buy next?

    I like the Mazda approach in the dealer and the range is very stylish.. I would have another Mazda 3 or a Mazda 6 estate in the future.

  • Buying experience

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Franchise

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £14,500

    When did you buy the car?

    October 2009

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Yes, deal was good and p/ex for my old car was generous. I still had small negative equity that I paid my way out of

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Loved the styling of the new Mazda 3 ahead of Focus, Astra and C4 plus it was significantly cheaper than the Golf. Managed to stumble across a top spec demonstrator model which made the decision easier

    What was the dealer like?

    Small, private firm that had fewer "controls" over sales staff as bigger PLC's so paperwork a bit messy and a few smaller errors were made from admin point of view

  • Driving it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Clutch is light and takes a while to get used to but the car is smooth, holds the road well and leather, sporty steering wheel gives you confidence to have fun - weather and roads permitting!

    What's it like to park?

    Parking sensors are very handy but without them viewing isn't the best, particularly at the front!

  • Living with it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Bluetooth system had to be upgraded under warranty as the unit could not connect to more "modern" phones. Dealer were very helpful and collected/delivered car on each occasion it was needed.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Stepped up from a 3-door so the extra room has been great and a bigger boot. Seats fold down flat very easily, getting the Xmas Tree in was no problem!

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    The bluetooth system is phenomenal..! Keyless entry and start button is very nice too. Ipod connector is a very welcome friend as well.